Major new event for annual celebrations in Honiton.

The inaugural Honiton Wine Festival, alleged to be the first of its kind in the Westcountry, is to provide an extension to this year’s Charter Day celebrations.

In six years, Charter Day has firmly established itself as a highlight on Honiton’s calendar and organisers say they are excited about this year’s events.

Former mayor Vernon Whitlock is a member of the Charter Day Committee and says plans are being finalised for the July 28 celebrations.

He said: “Honiton street market is as popular as ever and Charter Day adds the charity market and entertainers outside St Paul’s Church.

“Added to that mix, there is a free classic car rally, food stalls and entertainment, including The Queens Rangers on Allhallows Field. “Charter day is a day we all look forward to.

“There is a great atmosphere in the town and it cements Honiton’s reputation as both a market town and a great place to take a break.”

This year, the events are extended into the evening.

As well as a band concert at 7pm on the Millennium Green, the wine festival will take place at Allhallows Playing Field.

Colin Wright, chairman of Honiton and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who is one of those organising the festival, said: “We are all very excited about the festival, which will promote local wines and is the first of its kind in the Westcountry.

“There will be close to 30 wines to try, plus 30 local produce and food stands.

Tickets for the wine festival, which runs from 2pm to 9pm, will be available on the day.